The 7 Best MIDI Controller Keyboards for Home Studios

If you’re a musician or music producer, you probably already know how important it is to have a good MIDI controller keyboard. MIDI controller keyboards are essential tools for playing and recording your music using a computer or external music production device. Some also allow you to control virtual instrument parameters via rotary encoders, faders, or pads to record percussion elements. With this type of keyboard, you can record and produce music in a more intuitive and musical way using your favorite music production software.

But which is the best MIDI controller keyboard for your home studio or music production? In this post from GuitarRec Online Studio, we’ve curated a list of the best MIDI controller keyboards on the market, including portable options, keyboards with more octaves, velocity-sensitive pads, pitch bend wheels, joysticks, and complete USB and MIDI connectivity. We’ve even added keyboards with weighted keys for those serious about piano. Read on to find the perfect MIDI controller keyboard for you!

What is a MIDI Keyboard?

A MIDI controller keyboard is a device that connects to a computer or other audio equipment and allows you to control music software or virtual instruments by pressing keys. MIDI controller keyboards typically resemble a piano keyboard, with touch-sensitive keys (called Velocity in the MIDI protocol) and a varying number of octaves.

A MIDI controller keyboard does not generate or output audio on its own; it sends digital data that the computer interprets to play the correct note and pressure on the loaded virtual instrument.

When choosing the best controller, consider factors like portability, key size, and the number of octaves, as well as connectivity to your computer or equipment. The keyboard is typically connected to your computer via USB, though some models also offer 5-pin MIDI cable connections.

You should also decide if you want a keyboard with weighted or non-weighted keys, an important factor if you’re studying or already playing piano, and whether you need a keyboard with additional features like percussion pads or faders.

Criteria for Selecting MIDI USB Controller Keyboards

A MIDI controller keyboard is an essential tool for any musician using music software or virtual instruments, and there are many options available to suit different needs and budgets.

In this list, we’ve focused on keyboards suitable for home studios or small recording setups, ideal for beginners in music production, to simplify tasks like creating melodies and writing songs. We’ve prioritized keyboards with included software and free plugins, and added options with more octaves and weighted keys for those serious about piano.

Most options include percussion pads and rotary knobs or faders for controlling and automating parameters in your favorite DAW (ideal for virtual synthesizers and software mixing consoles).

Best MIDI Controller Keyboards (USB)

There are many options on the market, but here are some of the best MIDI keyboards recommended for use in home studios or project studios in 2024.

1. Novation Launchkey Mini MK3

This compact 25-key keyboard is user-friendly and offers a wide range of features, including 16 velocity-sensitive backlit pads, an arpeggiator, 8 rotary encoders, and two touch-sensitive strips for pitch and modulation. The keyboard is optimized for use with Ableton Live (one of the most popular DAWs), and there’s also an FLKey version optimized for FL Studio. It can also be configured to control parameters in any other software.

As is typical for keyboards of this size, the keys are smaller than those of a standard synthesizer or keyboard. This Novation model and others in the series are great options for those prioritizing pads, affordability, and portability.

2. AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3

This compact 25-key keyboard features 8 velocity-sensitive pads with Note Repeat and Full Level functions, a joystick and a pitch bend wheel, making it an excellent choice for any music producer in a home or portable studio setup.

The AKAI MIDI keyboard includes MPC Beats software, 6 virtual instruments, and 2 GB of sound samples and loops. It also features an arpeggiator and USB connectivity. The AKAI is undoubtedly one of the best portable MIDI controller options.

*You might also be interested in the AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play MK3 version, which includes a small speaker and built-in sounds.

3. Korg microKEY Air-25

The Korg microKEY Air-25 is a very compact and user-friendly MIDI controller keyboard, making it an excellent choice for those seeking portability. Its standout feature is its ability to work via Bluetooth, and its lack of pads or rotary knobs makes it one of the lightest and smallest keyboards in this selection. This USB keyboard includes a control joystick and is available in 25, 37, 49, and 61-key versions.

4. Arturia MiniLab 3

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a compact 25-key MIDI controller with an attractive and versatile design that retains many key features from the previous model while introducing significant updates. It features 8 backlit velocity-sensitive pads and 16 rotary encoders for precise parameter control. In this new version, 4 slider faders replace some of the previous encoders, adding versatility. It also includes an LCD screen for real-time parameter viewing, enhancing user experience.

Arturia includes its renowned software package and free virtual instruments, including Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Lite, and UVI’s grand piano. These are essential tools to start producing music right away. The brand is known for its emulations of synthesizers, keyboards, and effects, making the MiniLab 3 an excellent choice for producers at any level.

Additionally, the well-known KeyStep series is worth mentioning for controlling hardware sound setups and configurations without a computer, thanks to its full USB and MIDI connectivity.

5. M-Audio Oxygen 25 MKV

M-Audio’s Oxygen series includes 25, 49, and 61-key keyboards with essential features among the best MIDI controller keyboards: two modulation wheels, 8 velocity-sensitive pads, and 8 360-degree knobs for controlling any MIDI parameter in real-time. This makes it perfect for working on song structure with your preferred production software.

The M-Audio Oxygen includes MPC Beats software, Ableton Live Lite, 2 virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech (Hybrid 3 and Mini Grand), and 5 Akai Professional MPC expansion packs.

6. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol (A25, M32, A49, A61)

The Komplete Kontrol series from Native Instruments is a standout among MIDI controllers. A leading developer of virtual instruments since the dawn of computer music, these 25, 32, 49, and 61-key MIDI controllers come equipped with rotary encoders, pitch bend wheels, joysticks, and full USB and MIDI connectivity (depending on the version). These features make them perfect for music producers.

They come pre-configured to work seamlessly with Native Instruments’ Maschine music production software and offer quick access to libraries from the iconic Kontakt sampler. Additionally, the purchase includes a sample and plugin package (a lite version of the renowned Komplete suite).

7. (Extra) Weighted Key MIDI Keyboards

Here are the most common options to optimize your home studio setup. Similar to our post on the best studio monitors, we’re concluding this list with options aimed at more demanding and professional producers or those who’ve studied piano, plan to learn, or want to offer professional pianists the option to record MIDI piano tracks in their studio.

There are many weighted-key MIDI controllers (keys that mimic the feel of a real acoustic piano), and the best option depends on your specific needs. Here are several 88-key options worth considering:

• M-Audio Hammer 88
• Yamaha P-125
• Arturia Keylab 88 MKII
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2

Conclusion: The Best MIDI Controller Keyboards

This article presented a selection of the best MIDI controller keyboards currently available. Each keyboard has its own unique features and advantages, so it’s essential to choose one that best suits your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a portable MIDI controller, consider options like the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 or Akai MPK Mini MK3. If you need more octaves, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 MKV or Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2 might be better options. Whatever you choose, we hope this guide helps you find the perfect MIDI controller keyboard for your home studio or music production setup. Good luck, and enjoy your new gear!

+Info: You might also like our article on the best studio headphones.

Best-Selling MIDI Controller Keyboards

Here’s a list of some of the most popular MIDI keyboards for home studios, currently top sellers on Amazon:

Images by Gustavo Fring and photo by Karolina Grabowska.

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